5 QuickFirst AidTips

Do not move the patient unless the patient's location is an immediate threat to their life ... e.g., patient is in the water, a fire is burning in the building or vehicle, or there is no way to protect the patient from harm in their current location.

Protect the patient from the environment. Keep them covered.

If the patient is bleeding, apply a sterile bandage. If bleeding continues, apply additional dressings over the existing bandage. If possible, elevate the injury and apply direct pressure to the wound.

If the patient is not breathing or does not have a pulse, begin rescue breathing and/or CPR.

evidence of loss of body fluids, or high temperature if sepsis present

collapse and unconsciousness

progressive shutdown of bodys vital functionsA good indicator for shock is when a casualty displays two or more of the observations listed in the shocked patient list below.

CARE AND TREATMENT

call for an ambulance

control any bleeding

if conscious, position flat on floore, with legs elevated

if unconscious, stable side position with support under the legs to elevate them

reassurance

maintain body temperature, but do not overheat

treat any other injuries

Laceration

CARE AND TREATMENT

quickly check the wound for foreign matter

immediately apply pressure to stop any bleeding

bring the sides of the wound together and press firmly

apply a non-adherent dressing and a firm roller bandage

immobilise and elevate the injured limb if injuries permit

Choking

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

PARTIAL OBSTRUCTION

difficulty in breathing

wheezing

persistent cough

cyanosis (blue skin colour)

CARE AND TREATMENT

encourage to keep coughing

place small children and infants face down

if blockage has not been cleared call 000 for an ambulance

reassurance

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

COMPLETE OBSTRUCTION

unable to breathe

unable to speak or cough

agitated and distressed

may grip the throat

cyanosis (blue skin colour)

rapid loss of consciousness

CARE AND TREATMENT

position the casualty

adults on their side

children head down

deliver four firm slaps between the shoulder blades

check mouth and clear any obstructions that may have come loose

reassess the casualtys attempts to breathe

repeat four firm slaps between the shoulder blades

if blockage has not been cleared call 911 for an ambulance

If this fails to free the object and the casualty has collapsed, quickly roll the casualty onto his or her side, place your hands over the ribs, and deliver quick, firm thrusts. This may expel the object through the forcing of residual air from the lungs.